Bone Fixing Device with Elastic Ligature for Spinal Stabilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bone stabilization methods, such as hook and rod systems, pose risks of spinal cord damage and inadequate fixation due to small or deteriorated pedicles, while flexible linking pieces offer limited mobility and high manufacturing costs.
Innovation Solution
A fixing device with a conformable elongate ligature and adjustable locking means allows controlled relative mobility between a bone and a linking member, reducing the risk of damage and providing stable fixation by applying traction to the ligature, which can be made from elastic materials to enhance mobility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If hook and rod systems are used to stabilize vertebrae, then the vertebrae can be held in relative position, but the risk of spinal cord damage increases due to potential contact and damage to the spinal cord
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the harmful hook element that contacts the spinal canal and replaces it with a screw that engages the pedicle from the posterior approach, eliminating the risk of spinal cord damage while maintaining stabilization functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The rod serves as an intermediary element that transmits stabilizing forces between vertebrae without requiring direct contact with the spinal cord, allowing force transmission while maintaining safety distance from neural structures
2Reliability
If screws are inserted into pedicles for fixation, then the vertebrae can be held in fixed position, but the fixation may be insufficient when pedicles are small or deteriorated
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the engagement parameters by using a screw design that can accommodate varying pedicle dimensions and bone quality, with adjustable screw dimensions and thread characteristics to ensure adequate purchase in compromised pedicles
Solution Approach 2:
The screw-rod system provides dynamic adjustment capability during implantation, allowing optimization of screw placement and angulation to maximize engagement with available bone stock in deteriorated or small pedicles
3Reliability
If rigid connecting members are used to fix vertebrae, then stable fixation is achieved, but controlled relative mobility between adjacent vertebrae is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The invention introduces dynamic elements through flexible rods or segmented connecting members that can bend or articulate, allowing controlled relative motion between vertebrae while maintaining overall structural stability and support
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution enables controlled relative mobility between bones while maintaining stabilization, reducing the risk of spinal cord damage and offering adjustable traction for varied mobility needs, thus addressing the limitations of existing methods.
Implementation Method 1
The ligature (14) is made with an elastic conformable material
Data Source
AI summary
A fixing device to connect a bone to a linking member (18) is characterized in that it comprises; —a connecting part (12, 20, 22) to be connected to said linking member (18), having an outer face; —a conformable elongate ligature (14) cooperating with said bone suitable for securing said connecting part to said bone; said ligature applying a portion of the outer surface of the connecting part against a portion of said bone; and—adjustable locking means (46) fastened to said connecting part (12) to maintain said ligature in a state which allows a controlled relative mobility between said bone and said connecting part (12).